IN 1984 Taree Motor Cycle rider Tony Hyde won his first State title, the 10-14 years modified four stroke in the championships held at Bulahdelah.
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That track no longer exists. Tony was the Times Sportstar of the Week for his effort.
Thirty years later his son, Jack, took out the same event - the 10-14 years modified four stroke at the NSW titles held this time at Kempsey. Like dad, this is Jack's first State trophy. And like dad, Jack is also the Times-Iguana Sportstar of the Week. He gets a $50 open order at Iguana for his performance.
The championship was determined over five rounds. Jack started with three seconds. He then broke through for his first win in the fourth heat, setting up a showdown in the fifth.
Jack said he didn't let nerves get the better of him.
"I just made sure I didn't crash,'' he said.
Jack sealed the title in the best possible way, claiming the flag in the last race to put the issue beyond doubt.
He believed he was a good chance going into the championships.
"I've been riding just about every weekend,'' he reasoned.
He took two bikes to Kempsey, the 11-13 years 150cc, where he finished second. This was determined with heats and then a final. Jack finishing just off the pace in the final to take home the silver medal.
Aged 11, Jack will be eligible to defend his championship next year at State where he's also hoping to go one better in the 1500cc.
Winning the State title makes up for what Jack admits was a disappointing performance earlier this year in the Australian junior titles.
All the major events are over for the year. Jack's next engagement will be in the Troy Bayliss Classic to be held at the Old Bar track next January.
He's ridden in the past two classics.
Jack started riding when he was about four and competitively with the Taree club when he was seven.
His dad, who still rides with the Taree club, is his coach and also his mechanic.